The Bahamas is an excellent place for those who are seeking a variety of leisure pursuits. Water sports are particularly popular as are tennis, fishing and horse riding. For those who are more interested in nightlife, there are a variety of clubs and other evening entertainment.

Most of the islands offer a wide choice of water sports such as windsurfing, sailing, water skiing, swimming and snorkelling. Beginners can take scuba diving courses and there are several companies which run trips to different places around the islands so you can make the most of your new-found skills. Keen fishermen can also take trips run by charter companies to indulge their passion at different parts of the country, with some offering the opportunity to catch a shark. The equipment for water sports such as surfing and jet skiing can be hired at most public beaches.

The larger islands have several golf courses and anyone is welcome to just turn up and play. Clubs and caddies can be hired for the day. Those who prefer something off the beaten track might like to try horse riding. The trips organised by the stables in Nassau are suitable for both beginners and experienced riders and will take you to parts of the island you might not think of visiting otherwise.

There are a number of tourist attractions which are suitable for all the family, including the Ardastra Gardens and Zoo. This five-acre park makes an excellent day out and offers the opportunity to have a photograph taken with many different types of animals. The Pirates of Nassau museum goes into detail on the history of pirates in the Caribbean and visitors can take part in guided tours given by knowledgeable staff. If the history is too much, the Pirate bar next door is a good place to unwind.

The different islands of the Bahamas offer different things in the way of nightlife. Towns such as Nassau and Freeport obviously attract a large number of visitors and the nightlife varies from restaurants to casinos. Some of the smaller islands do not have casinos or nightclubs, but will often have pubs and other activities.

New Providence Island offers entertainment not just in the capital but also at Cable Beach, where visitors can also see a show at the theatre. Paradise Island also has a number of nightclubs and casinos as does Grand Bahama Island.

Visitors to the larger towns can also indulge in some retail therapy. The shops offer something for everybody from souvenirs to designer goods.